Primed for Disaster

After a closure and retrofitting that lasted over a year, La Mesa’s Fire Station 13 will once again be fully operational; the station reopened on March 8, according to a press release.

Built in the early ‘60s, the station was considered outdated and in need of repair or replacement. Among the improvements were individual dorms, an exercise room, new heating and ventilation systems, abatement of hazardous materials, improved accessibility, installation of fire-protection systems, and building upgrades to meet earthquake standards.

The cost for the remodel is estimated at $1.4 million and will be partially funded by Proposition D, the Fire, Police and Emergency Services Bond Measure approved by residents in 2004.

The station houses two fire engines: fire engine 13 is city-owned; the other is owned by the California Emergency Management Agency.

The station will continue to service the southern part of La Mesa, an area with an estimated 1500 fire and medical emergencies annually.

Photo: wconwell.com